You Girls Are Way Too Obsessed With A Lone Wolf Like Me - Volume 1 Chapter 5: Even Misaki and Hatori Struggle and Stumble And Epilogue

Volume 1 Chapter 5: Even Misaki and Hatori Struggle and Stumble  

It was the start of the last week of April. With the social gathering scheduled for this weekend, we were supposedly frantically finishing up the remaining tasks after school.  

…Or so you’d think.  

As for me, I was in my usual relaxed mood, reading books or listening to the radio in the private room.  

Well, of course. We’d already planned everything in advance, and honestly, the only major tasks were confirming attendance and booking the venue. There was nothing left to do until the day of the event.  

Hatori, on the other hand, had rushed home, exclaiming, “The 2SIS live stream I missed because I fell asleep just got uploaded!” Even subculture girls can’t resist packet communication, it seems.  

The only one still working was Misaki. She was sitting at the long table, finding unnecessary but detailed tasks and completing them with a smile. It was clear how much she was looking forward to the gathering and how determined she was to make it a success.  

“Himemiya-kun, what do you think of this?”  

Misaki, finished with her work, stood up and approached me, holding out an A4 sheet of paper.  

On it was a handmade map by Misaki, detailing the information of the restaurant we’d booked earlier. It included not only the address and phone number but also detailed and easy-to-follow directions from the station to the restaurant. Here and there were doodles of rabbits, the kind Misaki often used in LINE stickers.  

“The rabbit illustrations are cute, right?”  

Suddenly, I wondered,  

“Why are older people so hopelessly bad at using stamps and emojis?”  

“Can I hear the reason behind that question first?!”  

Whether she pouts or gives me a side-eye, I’m staying silent on that question.  

“Overall, it’s a well-made map. But—”  

“But?”  

“This part’s wrong.”  

“Huh, really?”  

Misaki leaned in beside me, asking, “Where, where?” As always, she was too close, and the faint sweet scent of flowers from her hair brushed against my cheek.  

I tried not to show how ticklish it felt—it would be embarrassing. Suppressing the urge to scratch my cheek, I pointed out the mistake.  

“Here. It’s not JR Sannomiya, it’s JR San-no-miya.”

“San no miya…? Fufuh ♪” 

(T/N: It’s the difference of how it’s written.  三宮 is written as Sannomiya, and that’s what Misaki was talking about. But MC pointed out that its with an ノ, 三ノ宮, which is read the same as without an ノ. The original station is indeed written as 三ノ宮 but some locals usually omit the ノ as it’s read the same. Both are right in this case. You can skip this banter, its jap stuff)

“Huh?”  

Her breath tickled my ear this time. Mocking my correction, Misaki smirked triumphantly and puffed out her chest. Just like earlier with the illustrations, she was getting her revenge.  

“Fufun♪ That’s your mistake, Himemiya-kun. My house is in Kobe, so I pass through Sannomiya Station all the time, but there’s no ‘no’ in it.”  

“Mistakes happen, right?♪” Misaki teased, patting my shoulder sympathetically, as if to say, “Don’t worry about it.” She was holding a grudge.  

But if she’s going to sympathize, she’s way off.  

“The Sannomiya Station Misaki’s talking about is on the Hanshin Electric Railway, right? Its official name is Kobe Sannomiya.”  

“? Yeah, but—”  

“Hanshin and Hankyu don’t have ‘no’ in Sannomiya, but JR’s station name does. It’s Sannomiya.”  

“Huh…”  

Misaki, looking puzzled, started fiddling with her smartphone. After a while, she muttered, “…Really…” while staring at the screen.  

“By the way, the place name is also Sannomiya, no ‘no’ needed. Kobe City has been asking JR for a while to unify it with other transportation systems and call it ‘Kobe Sannomiya’ instead of ‘Sannomiya.’”  

It’s so annoying. When I use the transfer navigation app on my phone, if I search for JR Sannomiya, it doesn’t show up. When JR Sannomiya Station comes up in the search suggestions, it feels like it’s saying, “Maybe you meant JR Sannomiya? Pfft, haha, lol,” and it irritates me. Just like Misaki did earlier.  

Misaki, standing right beside me, kept glancing over. She seemed to be debating whether to apologize sincerely, brush it off with a joke, or just shrink away, but embarrassment seemed to be winning. Her face was red.  

Time for the final blow.  

“How does it feel to mock someone and then realize you’re the one who’s wrong?”  

“I… I’m embarrassed for thinking I could outdo Himemiya-kun even for a moment…!”  

“MiStAkEs HaPpEn, RiGhT?♪”  

“~~Ahhh! That irks me so much~~!”  

Misaki, bright red from embarrassment and anger, shook my shoulders vigorously, taking out her frustration on me.  

You’re the one who didn’t know despite being from Kobe. That’s on you.  

※ ※ ※

The window-side front-row seat is truly the best. The cool breeze coming through the window and the warm sunlight enveloping me are nothing short of perfect.  

It was lunch break. After finishing my bento, I lay face down on my desk, soaking up the sun.  

“Are you trying to be all high and mighty?”  

“Huh?” “Huh…?”  

Turning my head to the right, I saw Kurashiki scolding Misaki and Hatori about something.  

“Karin’s drinking soy milk yogurt, and Reina’s having vegetable juice… You’re totally concerned about your beauty and health huh!?”  

She seemed unhappy with the juice packs they were drinking.  

“It makes me look like I have no girl power just because I’m drinking strawberry milk!”  

Kurashiki chugged her drink like she was downing a beer and gnawed on a Pocky stick like it was a skewered chicken.  

Her thoughts were childish, but her actions were like an old man’s.  

The usual sight of Misaki and her two close friends chatting around the desk was like listening to a voice actress or idol’s casual talk on an internet radio show.  

“Maybe we’re a little conscious of it, but we’re not forcing ourselves to drink it, right?”  

“U, um… It’s delicious…”  

“And there it is!”  

Kurashiki pointed at Hatori, who jumped in surprise.  

“Are you the type of girl who would seriously say, ‘Stuff like no additives or organic is delicious from the bottom of my heart!’? No way! There’s no way that’s true! A McShake is obviously way more delicious, duh!”

“I like McDonald’s shakes too… And hey! If that’s the case, Ruri should drink something more grown-up too.”  

“Want to swap with me?” Misaki offered her juice pack, but Kurashiki quickly looked away.  

“I don’t like soy milk, so no thanks.”  

“That’s exactly what I’m talking about!”

“What the heck!? Are you saying I’m childish?!”

Kurashiki, flashing her fangs, playfully lunges at Misaki and Hatori. They’re not actually fighting or arguing—the three of them burst into laughter, tickling and hugging each other.

The scene is so yuriyuri (girl-on-girl affection) that it feels like it could save the world. The students around them smile warmly, as usual, watching the spectacle.

In stark contrast to the cozy atmosphere of Misaki’s group, the vibe in the seats behind them is completely different. Ameya and Takechi are intensely co-oping in a mobile game.

Just another everyday scene.

“Checking the contents of the air pack! Whoa! Got the AWM!”

“Nice! I’ve got the 8x scope and suppressor, so leave it to me!”

“Huh? I’m using it. Ameya, a submachine gun suits you better, though.”

“The bus is leaving, yo~”

“Hey! Don’t leave me behind! I’ll headshot you!”

“What!? Try me! Don’t underestimate my driving skills!”

“Psssss!” “Hehehehe!”

This online radio stream is too intense—I quickly look away.

While gender discrimination is bad, this is just one of those things, isn’t it? The demand-supply ratio for yuriyuri vibes versus sweaty, over-the-top energy is just too different.

My surroundings are noisy, sure, but it’s the usual noise, so I don’t mind. If anything, I think it’s a peaceful everyday flow.

So, I’ll just do what I always do—sunbathe and sleep.

Goodnight.

“There they are! Hey! Karin───!”

Good morning.

At the classroom entrance, a guy’s voice calling for Misaki echoes through the room.

Why are popular kids always so loud? Is it because they have the confidence to assert themselves?

I open my eyes again, still face-down, and glance toward the voice.

The speaker is that popular kid from the neighboring class I saw in Sannomiya the other day. His name is Kasai, I think.

With his dyed hair spiked up and wearing chunky boots, he looks every bit the chara-chara (flashy) type. How flashy? Flashy enough that my brain starts playing the OP theme: “Chara-chara… heh-chara…” In my mind, the flashy guy soars through the clouds—SPARKLING.

Kasai, along with a group of guys and girls from the neighboring class, approaches Misaki’s group. They’re all dressed so flamboyantly that it’s obvious they’re friends with Endou, Namikawa, and the rest.

“What’s up, everyone?”

“Let us join your social gathering too!”

“……Huh? Our social gathering…?”

Misaki can’t hide her confusion at the sudden request. In contrast, Kasai and his group plead with a “YES!” expression—no, excuse me, an expression that seems completely harmless.

The classmates watching the scene can’t help but sense the unease in the air.

“When we told our class about your social gathering, everyone was super jealous. So, we figured we’d ask to join! Plus, we can finally go to the place Karin invited us to—it’s a win-win, right?”

Win-win? More like a double play, you idiot.

“What’s this? Kasai’s joining the social gathering too!? Awesome! This is gonna be so lit!”

Birds of a feather flock together. To put it in RPG terms:

Flashy Guy [Kasai] called for backup! Loudmouth [Ikari] appeared!

I thought the Flashy Guy was loud, but the Loudmouth is way worse. Does he have a speaker in his throat or something?

A vicious cycle. If Ikari starts causing a ruckus, Namikawa and the rest of our class’s popular group will show up too.

The popular kid density in this area is off the charts. It’s only balanced because I’m here with Ameya and Takechi. I’m proud that we’re still holding the line.

Speaking of Ameya and Takechi, they’re in full stealth mode. They’re so inconspicuous they might as well say, “I’m just a shadow.” Their earlier intensity is like a lie—they’re still playing without missing a beat, even if they’re not talking. As gamers, they’re the real deal. Good luck with the chicken dinner.

Ikari and Kasai are hyped up.

“Since Karin and Erena picked the place, it’s gotta be awesome! And there’s karaoke too, so get ready!”

“For real? Should we do a class vs. class score battle? Or maybe popular kids vs. nerds?”

“Haha! That could be fun! But if someone sings anime songs, it’ll be a funeral, right!?”

“Wait, isn’t this event kinda like a mixer?”

“Exactly! That’s totally what I was thinking!”

As the two laugh, the popular girls tease them with, “So gross!”

By now, it’s assumed the neighboring class’s popular kids are coming, and the usual quietness is gone. At this point, I’m too dumbfounded to say anything.

“Hey, you guys. Karin and the others have their own plans, so it’s not cool to just push things forward like this.”

If only all popular kids were like Namikawa. His words are so spot-on that even the popular kids fall silent. This is the power of their leader, Namikawa.

“Right, Karin?” Namikawa glances at Misaki, and everyone’s attention turns to her.

“Sorry?” Misaki apologizes softly, hands pressed together to avoid causing friction.

“I’m really sorry, but this is supposed to be a class social gathering.”

Misaki is a philanthropist, but not a party animal. She knows that if this group joins, the main goal of the get-together—deepening bonds among classmates—will be harder to achieve.

It’s impressive how she stands her ground without being overwhelmed by their intimidating presence.

Misaki is strong.

“It’s fine, though~”

But this one’s tough too. Endou Hina.

Still wafting her overly sweet perfume, Endou stretches out her words in a sugary tone, asking the classmates,

“Everyone’s okay with Kasai and the others joining, right?”

I thought it was unfair. Usually, she only refers to her inner circle as “everyone,” but now she’s including the whole class.

The classmates stay silent. Of course. They’re just statistically more uncomfortable with the higher caste; they don’t have a specific reason to object.

“Right, Karin? It’ll be fine, won’t it~?”

Endou flashes a bright smile at Misaki. The fact that she genuinely thinks it’ll be fine is either queen-like confidence or something else entirely.

Taking the classmates’ silence as agreement, Ikari claps his hands and shouts, “Alright, it’s settled!” The other popular kids join in, hyping up the mood.

Meanwhile, Hatori clenches her fists tightly and looks down, while Kurashiki leans on her elbow with a dissatisfied expression.

Misaki opens her mouth as if to say something but quickly closes it. She knows pushing further will only sour the atmosphere. Whether it’s a meaningless majority vote or not, the decision has been made, and the class has accepted it.

As if to wrap things up, Namikawa asks Misaki,

“I’ll make sure they don’t go too wild, okay?”

“……Yeah.”

Namikawa bows apologetically, and Misaki nods with an awkward smile. The popular kids’ festival mood intensifies, as if worshipping Misaki as a goddess, showering her with kind words.

They clearly adore Misaki, but the scene still feels off.

After a while, the excitement dies down, and the popular kids return to their usual spots. Though the classroom and students’ positions are the same as minutes ago, the air feels distinctly different. An unpleasant atmosphere lingers.

There’s no point in observing the classroom further.

I put on my headphones, slump back onto my desk, and enter full sleep mode.

Closing my eyes, I vaguely think about the situation. The high-caste kids unilaterally pushing their agenda, and the low-caste kids staying silent. Neither side is entirely at fault, but human relationships are exhausting, I realize again.

Being alone is still more comfortable for me.

※※※

After school. Just as I sling my bag over my shoulder to head to the private room, a girl approaches me. It’s Seno, a quiet, artsy girl.

Seno fidgets, hands clasped, and musters the courage to confess to me.

This is the fifth time today, including this one.

Is this what they call a “popular phase”?

“I’m sorry! Please let me cancel my participation in the get-together!”

Apologies, that’s a lie. I’m just constantly receiving requests to skip the social gathering. I even got confessed to by Ameya and Takechi. Of course, for the same reason.

As expected, ever since it was decided that the neighboring class’s popular kids would join, classmates have been lining up to ask me to cancel their participation.

Here I am, suddenly in high demand. They don’t want to bother Misaki directly, so they’re using me to the fullest. Am I customer support now?

That said, I get why they’re canceling. A social athering where only a few people party isn’t something most would want to attend.

So, I don’t try to stop Seno.

Misaki next to me feels differently.

“Ena-chan, let’s enjoy the social gathering together!”

“It’ll be fine,” Misaki reassures Seno, trying to hold her back. But Seno’s expression remains cloudy. No wonder. Misaki’s own expression is far from her usual sunny self. It’s clear she’s not genuinely convinced it’ll be fine.

Still, Misaki desperately tries to persuade her, at least asking her to put her decision on hold instead of canceling outright.

“U, um… I’ll think about it a bit more…”

Though the response isn’t great, Misaki manages to barely hold Seno back. This is a scene I’ve witnessed repeatedly whenever someone asks me to cancel their attendance.

Seno leaves the classroom looking apologetic, and Misaki, watching her go, exhales faintly. Even without openly showing her dejection, her exhaustion is evident in every small action.

“Karin, are you okay…?”

“Can I help with anything?”

Hatori and Kurashiki, who’ve been watching, approach.

In response to their concern, Misaki forces a smile. “I’m fine! Thanks for worrying about me!” They know she’s putting on a brave face, but since she’s not showing weakness, they can’t press further.

“Himemiya-kun.”

“Hm?”

“I’ve got something to do, so I’ll be late to the secret base. Can we rethink the social gathering plans afterward?”

“Understood.”

“Please hold my bag!” Misaki hands over her bag and hurries out of the classroom. Once she’s out of sight, Kurashiki mutters, “What a hassle…” and Hatori looks troubled.

※※※

After parting ways with Kurashiki, who had to go to work, Hatori and I arrive at the private room.

“Himemiya, please. Save Karin.”

“Me?”

Hatori, standing in front of me with a grave expression, nods firmly.

Her sudden request leaves me speechless.

Finally, I manage to say,

“Are you sure you’ve got the right person…?”

Who’s saving who? Me saving Misaki? No way.

But Hatori insists, “You’re the right person.”

If she’s so sure, it must be her judgment that’s off.

“Hatori, let me explain this in a way you’ll understand, since you love game streams. What you’re asking is like telling a farmer plowing a field, ‘Go save the princess in the Demon King’s castle now.’”

“Mario’s a plumber too.”

“He went voluntarily, so it doesn’t count.”

“Then go voluntarily.”

“No.”

Even after I brush her off, Hatori persists.

“……Because it’s troublesome?”

“It’s not just that it’s troublesome. It’s a matter of whether I can even do it. I’m not suited for this.”

That’s the honest truth.

Misaki and I have completely different views on relationships and values.

Even I, who’s been alone for a long time, can see that Misaki’s struggling with the social gathering and being caught between castes. But understanding doesn’t mean I can empathize.

If I could empathize, I wouldn’t be so nonchalant about it, and I wouldn’t think, “Human relationships are exhausting.”

So, someone with views as opposite as mine can’t encourage Misaki. Not only can’t I, but I might make things worse—like throwing oil on a fire or water on a hot stone. I’ve lost my temper over similar situations before.

“Sorry, but a lone wolf like me can’t save a philanthropist like Misaki.”

“That’s not true…! As far as I know, only you can save her.”

Hatori shakes her head vigorously, her long, straight black hair swaying wildly.

This isn’t just persistence anymore. She’s not backing down.

“Do you think I’m some kind of hero or something…?”

“Maybe.”

“Huh…?”

Hatori’s large, sharp eyes stare straight at me, so serious and shameless that I wonder if I’ve become game-brained too. She looks like a village girl asking for help.

“Because you’re someone who can clearly say and do what you believe is right, only you can save Karin.”

“Ah, I see,” I unintentionally nod in agreement.

I finally understand why our views of me are so different.

It’s another clash of values and perspectives.

To Hatori, it doesn’t matter if I’m a lone wolf or a philanthropist. What matters is whether I’m someone who can speak their mind.

If Hatori’s right about what it takes to save Misaki, then I guess I fit the bill. I’ll admit that. Only someone at the top of the caste like Misaki, Endou, or Namikawa, or someone at the bottom like me, can speak their mind clearly.

The former are called charismatic, while the latter are dismissed as selfish.

Most students fear being labeled the latter and stay silent, preferring to remain part of the quiet majority.

Because I wanted it, I didn’t—I couldn’t—oppose the popular kids from the neighboring class joining the social gathering.

Hatori clenches her fist tightly, as if regretting.

“At the moment I should’ve helped the most, I was too scared to protect Karin… I can’t save her now, and I don’t have the right to…”

Hatori is struggling to change. I’ve noticed this during our short time together at school and on days off.

But people can’t change that easily.

That’s why Hatori is desperately clinging to me, begging.

“Please…! I know it’s selfish and pushy, but save Karin. Only you can do it…!”

“You, too, always say the most ridiculous things…”

“If it’s not Himemiya, I wouldn’t say something so ridiculous.”

During soccer class, Misaki asked me for help in the same way.

What do they think I am? Some charity worker, a hero, or a blue raccoon from the future?

If so, they’re way off. I’m just someone who likes being alone—nothing more, nothing less. Everyone’s overestimating me.

I scratch my head and stand up.

“Where are you going…?”

“For a walk.”

※※※

All the clubs have already started practice, and I can hear cheers from the field and music from the cultural building. Youth is being shoved into my ears everywhere. Forced youth, right here.

Reaffirming that this world of sweat and effort has nothing to do with me, I climb the external emergency stairs step by step. Soon, I reach my destination—my favorite spot, the top-floor landing.

There’s already someone there.

Misaki.

She’s sitting on the last step, hugging her knees and looking down.

I only came here on a slight chance she might be here, so I freeze for a moment.

She doesn’t seem to notice me. Still looking down, Misaki gives off a gloomy vibe, like a girl who jumped from the stairs and is now a lingering spirit. She’s so lifeless I wonder, “Uh… Is she possessed…?”

I quietly place a freshly bought can of coffee next to her.

“I don’t drink bitter stuff.”

“It’s lightly sweetened.”

“Smart mouth.”

Misaki finally looks up, sticking out her tongue briefly. She’s not possessed, and she’s been aware of me. Though far from her usual self, she still has the energy to retort and smile weakly.

“Are you almost done with your business?”

Even I think it’s a mean question. But with my lack of social skills, this is the best I can do.

Misaki understands my intent and, figuring there’s no point in hiding it, replies,

“Uh… Honestly, not at all.”

Misaki forces a smile, admitting defeat.

Now that I’m here, I realize I’m out of place—even worse, I’m an intruder. Misaki came here because she didn’t want anyone around.

“I’ll wait in an empty classroom. If you can’t finish today, let me know──?”

As I try to leave, Misaki grabs my hem.

“Hey… Stay here a little longer, okay?”

Looking up at me, Misaki’s expression is weak, and her grip on my hem feels tight.

I sit down silently beside her, and she releases my hem, seeming relieved.

I don’t get it. If I were in her position, I’d want to be alone to wallow in my feelings.

“Sorry for using your favorite spot without asking.”

“Stairs and hallways are shared spaces, so it’s fine.”

“Are you being considerate of me, maybe?”

“Somewhat.”

“Figured. The usual you would say, ‘Yeah.’”

I’m still bad at being considerate of others.

I avert my gaze with a sullen expression, and Misaki chuckles lightly.

“Can I have that coffee after all?”

I hand her the still-cold can of coffee. Misaki thanks me, pops the tab, takes a sip, and wrinkles her brow. “It’s still a bit bitter,” she mutters, literally making a bitter smile.

As if commenting on the taste, she murmurs,

“It’s hard to get along with everyone, isn’t it?”

“……Yeah.”

If someone like me, a master of being alone, is asked that, the only answer is YES. Misaki is so worn out she can’t even grasp that.

Misaki, being a philanthropist, is more sensitive than anyone to caste discrimination and conflicts between people. That’s why she tries to reach out to everyone, ending up in a mess and suffering alone.

“How can I make the social gathering fun for everyone…?”

Looking at Misaki’s profile, her gaze is fixed on the distant sky.

I recall walking home under the same umbrella. Back then, even under cloudy skies, her eyes sparkled. But now?

Staring at the clear blue sky, her eyes lack their former shine. It’s as if a void has opened in her chest, leaving her gazing blankly at the empty sky.

It’s clear she can no longer imagine a future where she’s friends with everyone. The condensation from the cans in her hands drips to the ground, as if crying for her.

Misaki falls silent.

Is she waiting for my encouragement?

I guess it’s my role to say something, but I, with no friends, can’t think of anything clever.

No wonder. I’m supposed to be improving my social skills to solve these problems, thanks to Amami-sensei.

Conclusion: This is too hard for me.

No point pretending.

“Honestly, I don’t know what to say in situations like this.”

Is she disappointed? Misaki shifts her gaze from the sky to me and smiles faintly. “……I see.”

“So I’ll just say what I’m thinking.”

“？ ……Yeah.”

“I think you should give up on making the social gathering fun for everyone.”

“……!”

Confronted with reality, Misaki doesn’t argue against my harsh words.

“Instead—”

“?”

“I think you should make it a social gathering that you enjoy.”

“! ……Me?”

Misaki’s gaze sharpens. She stops looking down and stares at me, surprised.

“Right now, you’re trying to make the social gathering successful for everyone else, right?”

“U, yeah. That’s what a host does.”

“But how’s it going so far? Can you really make everyone happy?”

“……Honestly, it’s hard.”

“Me too. Being a host for the first time, I realized it’s impossible. Of course it is—no one shares the same values or thoughts.”

That’s why—

“You need to draw boundaries and compromise, so make the social gathering centered around yourself.”

“But… isn’t that selfish?”

“It’s fine to be selfish. You’re the host.”

My quick response seems to enlighten Misaki.

It’s not about following the host’s orders; it’s about the host’s orders being followed.

“Being a host is like volunteering—no pay, no rewards. As long as you’re not too extreme, being selfish won’t backfire.”

“! ……Yeah.”

I’ve said everything I needed to—maybe even too much.

“This is just the opinion of someone who likes being alone, so feel free to ignore it if you don’t like it.”

“No… I won’t ignore it. It’s really helpful.”

Misaki slowly shakes her head, takes another sip of the coffee she dislikes, and gulps it down. “……Still too bitter for me,” she mutters, but the bitterness seems far lighter than before.

That’s why I voice my certainty about this situation.

“If Endou and the others worked at a convenience store, they’d mix hot coffee and ice cream together.”

“……Huh?”

Misaki freezes, confused.

“Don’t you think she’d give you a nasty look if you asked her to separate them? She’d ignore your request, act annoyed, and carelessly split the hot and cold items.”

“……”

“Hm? ……Misaki?”

“……Huh—”

“Huh?”

“Huh…! Hahahahaha!”

Misaki bursts into laughter, nearly spilling her coffee. She places it on the ground and laughs even harder, going from a bitter smile to tears of laughter.

Misaki’s lost it…

“Hahahaha! Why did you suddenly say that!? You’re so natural, Himemiya-kun! A natural airhead! Ah, this is hilarious!”

Misaki keeps laughing, to the point where I’m taken aback.

“But I get it!”

“You do?”

“I mean, even though we’re the hosts, we made Erena help us so much!”

It’s like a dam broke.

“And Kasai-kun too! Asking to join last minute causes trouble for the restaurant! His lack of malice makes it worse!”

Complaints pour out, turning into a full-blown venting session.

“And everyone else! They should tell me directly if they want to skip, not rely on you!”

“Right. What do they think I am?”

“And you, Himemiya-kun! You just eavesdrop during lunch and don’t help!”

“Hey!”

“Ahaha! Sorry, sorry!”

Wiping away her tears, Misaki finally calms down.

With a serious expression, she says, “But you know?”

“No matter how much I complain, I can’t hate them.”

“……I see.”

Misaki and I really think differently.

Despite being hurt and discouraged, she still chooses to reach out to others.

She still strives to get along with everyone.

I think she’s foolish, but also incredible—truly, from the bottom of my heart.

“Still, I’m surprised. You actually hold grudges and even killing intent?”

“When have I ever spread killing intent!?”

Her natural reaction shows her usual energy.

“I do feel resentment and regret, but there’s no point in letting negative emotions out. So, I usually hold back or keep them inside.”

“I see.”

“But thanks to you, Himemiya-kun, I learned something new: it’s not good to only think about others.”

Misaki turns her whole body toward me.

“From now on, when I’m in trouble, I’ll consult you.”

“Don’t casually say something so troublesome… Fine, but don’t complain if I ignore you 90% of the time, okay?”

“That’s fine. It means you’ll be by my side, right?”

“Such a positive person…”

“Perfect for a negative person like you, right?”

Too tired to retort, I sigh, and Misaki seems to have won the argument. She flashes a smile with dimples, clearly proud of her victory.

Her usual smile is back in full force.

Misaki places her hands on her knees and stands up. She stretches widely, as if loosening stiff muscles, reaching her arms and body high into the sky.

“I feel better. Thanks.”

Basking in the breeze, Misaki’s gloomy mood has completely vanished.

※※※

The next morning. After finishing an early job, I head straight to school.

Entering the classroom, I notice an unusually high density of people in one area.

Classmates are clearly staring at the seats around me.

Specifically, they’re focused on Misaki’s seat. Whether they gathered or were gathered, Misaki is surrounded by our class and the neighboring class’s popular kids. Endou is even sitting on my desk.

From the crowd, it’s obvious this is about the social gathering.

“I’m sorry! I’d like to hold the social gathering with just our class!”

Misaki’s heartfelt apology leaves everyone bewildered.

Kasai, equally confused, asks,

“Was it because of the reservation numbers?”

“No, it’s not that. Since we’ve just enrolled, this event is for my classmates to get to know each other.”

Misaki seems to be addressing not just the popular group, but every classmate in the room. Indeed, everyone is listening intently.

“Of course, I want to get along with everyone in Class A too. So, could we hang out with Kasai and the others on a different day?”

Misaki finishes expressing her thoughts so clearly there’s no room for misunderstanding.

If anyone still doesn’t understand after this, there’s nothing more to be done.

“Huh─────? It’s fine if Kasai’s group is there, right~?”

An irredeemable person speaks up. A girl casually plays with her phone, her voice sugary as she speaks. It’s Endou.

“I was thinking this yesterday too, but like, Hina totally doesn’t get what Karin’s even saying~. I mean, come on, as long as you’re having fun with friends who vibe with you, isn’t that enough?”

Endou just tosses out her words all lazy-like, one after another. It’s like some half-hearted part-time gig where all you gotta do is blurt out whatever pops into your head without chewing on it first.

“We’re already in high school, y’know? Let’s quit playing pretend-friends and move on from all that boring kiddie stuff.”

Her voice is sweet as sugar, but what she’s saying cuts deep—so sharp that even the usual lovebirds and normies around her shut their mouths. And yet, whether she’s unaware or just doesn’t care, the ojousama-spirited Endou keeps right on going.

“Heeey, everyone~. Is what Hina’s saying really wrong~?”

Ah yes, her signature move. Endou lifts her eyes from her phone and tosses the question to the class. Her gaze, framed with razor-sharp mascara and eyeliner, hits with full force—those eyes don’t mess around. Most of the classmates quickly avert their eyes. Just like that, as expected, silence wraps around the classroom, and not a soul dares to speak.

Except for one person.

“……I think you’re wrong.”

In the silent classroom, one voice speaks up.

Misaki and our classmates are understandably shocked. The speaker is Hatori, the quiet girl who’s been trying to change. This is her first step toward change, and having heard her yesterday, I understand how much courage it took for her to stand up for Misaki.

Endou’s smile fades.

“Hm? Why, Erena?”

“Maybe you’re having fun, Hina… but most people aren’t.”

Hatori tries again and again not to give in to the pressure of Endou’s stare, her head nearly dipping down—but she clenches her fists tight, refusing to bow. She puts strength into her own eyes and keeps staring straight at Endou.

“Yes yes! I’m with Karin and Erena too~!”

Kurashiki stands up for Misaki and Hatori, adding her voice to theirs.

“Hah?” Endou shoots Kurashiki a death glare, clearly not even trying to hide her irritation. She wraps a finger around her carefully permed hair, twirling it round and round and round… over and over.

“Ruri too…? Just ’cause you’re close with Karin, you’re gonna side with her? That’s kinda unfair, don’t you think?”

“Eeh~. It’s BECAUSE I’m close to her that I’m on her side.”

Kurashiki’s tone is deliberately airheaded. But this girl’s got nerves of steel in her own way.

Noticing the rising tension in the air, Namikawa steps in, trying to ease things over.

“Hina, chill. Everyone’s just saying what they think, that’s all. Right?”

“……”

Namikawa’s calm words make Endou fall silent, but her displeasure doesn’t fade. Every little gesture, every tiny movement still radiates her irritation—honestly, she could be a professional actor with how expressive she is.

Namikawa crosses his arms, clearly at a loss. Even Ikari, usually loud and obnoxious, stays totally silent. Most of the class feels the weight of the mood, too awkward to speak up.

Far as I’m concerned… the answer’s already clear.

And because I think that—I move. I stop being a silent observer and head toward my desk.

Since the whole room’s frozen like time itself stopped, the moment I break from the stillness, every pair of eyes zeroes in on me. Even Misaki and Hatori can’t hide their surprise at my sudden action.

I reach my desk and try to hook my bag onto the side as usual… but I can’t. Endou is sitting on it, completely blocking the way.

She leans on my desk, glaring up at me with eyes full of resentment, bitterness, and stress—just hurling every negative emotion she has straight at me. Why me? Just take it out on Ikari, not me…

Her soft, fluffy curls look like they could spike up from how tense she is, and her overly sweet perfume feels extra intense. Though, really, it’s just ’cause she’s way too close.

“What?”

“Yeah, uh, this is my seat.”

“Hina and the others are in the middle of something. Can you just go somewhere else?”

“Nah. Still my seat.”

Endou doesn’t even try to hide her annoyance as she spits out her words.

“Ugh, what’s a gloomy loner like you even doing talking?”

“So a gloomy loner isn’t allowed to speak now? Who died and made you god?”

A murmur ripples through the classroom.

To everyone around, it probably felt like: “Ah. He’s done for…”

But I don’t care. I’m not afraid of ruining whatever social standing I’ve got. It’s not like I can drop any lower. I couldn’t care less if people hate me. Honestly, I’m already way past the point of caring.

That’s the solo life quality™.

Even Endou flinches, startled, her voice shaking a bit. “Wha–what’s your problem?”

“Are you trying to play white knight for Karin? Huh? Aha~♪ Himemiya, do you like her or something~?”

What is she, in elementary school?

She looks down on me, sneering with pure contempt.

“You worked one stupid event with her and fell head over heels? Ugh, sooo outta your league. Honestly, you’re so easy it’s gross~!”

“And what if I do like her?”

“…Huh?”

It wasn’t just Endou. Every classmate who’d been listening in had the same blank expression, mouths slightly agape.

Misaki too.

“Compared to you, I do like Misaki way more.”

There’s nothing embarrassing about saying it. That’s just how I feel.

“Do you even realize how hard Misaki’s been working to make this little class mixer a success? Every day she comes up with new tasks—stuff she doesn’t even need to do—and every day, she drags me along to help. So yeah, I do know. I know how serious she is about bringing this class closer together.”

“Himemiya-kun…”

“Misaki’s been giving it her all up to this point. So sure, sometimes she’s a bit pushy and yeah, it gets annoying. But I don’t dislike her. You, on the other hand—I can’t stand. All you ever do is complain and talk trash.”

“Hmph! Like I care if some gloomy loner like you hates me…!”

Endou’s eyes flare up as she snarls, “You’re seriously disgusting…!” Her syrupy voice now dripping with pure malice, making it feel like I might get a stomachache just from hearing it.

“Ugh, I’m over it. This whole mixer thing sounds lame anyway. Hina’s not going.”

“But if the class next door were coming, you would go, wouldn’t you?”

“…Hah? Are you stupid? That’s literally what we were just talking about.”

“So, you would go?”

“…?”

Even as Endou treats me like an idiot, even as I feel the gazes from everyone around…

I pull my phone from my pocket and open LINE.

From my sad, tiny friend list, I tap on Koi no Kimikauta.

After a short while, a soft, familiar voice—calm and gentle—reached my ears.

『Hallo hallo~. Haruichi-kun, it’s been since earlier, huh~』

“Ah. Thanks for picking up. Sorry, it’s about this morning—what did the manager say?”

『Yup ♪ They said it’s all good~』

“Ah, great. Then please reserve it for Saturday evening this week. I’ll confirm the exact time later today, either by calling again or stopping by the shop after school.”

『Okaaay ♪』

I said goodbye to Koino-san and ended the call.

Even the riajuu crowd around me—Endou and the rest—should’ve gotten the gist of it from that conversation alone.

“I went ahead and booked a café near school. We can call the other class—or even a different class entirely—for the afterparty. Shouldn’t be a problem, right?”

The riajuus stirred with surprise at the unexpected development.

Anticipating something like this, I’d swung by my favorite café, WELL, in the early morning. I asked Koino-san, who was working a morning shift, to check the reservation for me.

I said it was for an errand, but that morning coffee hit the spot. I might be getting into the whole morning coffee thing.

“It’s more of a jun-kissaten than a café, but both the exterior and interior have great atmosphere. Stylish vibes guaranteed. That’s my biggest compromise here. If you want anything more, then you’ll need to take it up with me and Misaki—it’s outside our jurisdiction.”

I glanced toward Misaki, who was hearing this for the first time, and she looked like joy was radiating from her entire body.

Kinda feels like… this is what communication is supposed to be, huh.

“Would it be okay if Class A joins from the afterparty onward?”

Kasai and the others lit up with excitement—just what they were hoping for.

Namikawa placed a hand on Endou’s shoulder, who was still glaring.

“I wanna come to the afterparty too. What about you, Hina?”

“…I’ll go.”

Rather than surrendering, Endou muttered like she’d just gotten tired of resisting.

Sometimes, even Ikari proves useful.

“Shuntarou and Hina are coming to the afterparty! And we can invite other classes too! This is gonna be lit!”

Even the riajuus from the neighboring class jumped in—“”””Oooooh!!””””—erupting in cheers.

Seriously. They’re as rowdy as ever.

Getting hit with this much attention first thing in the morning… my SAN level took a nosedive.

Trying to recover even a little, I spaced out by the hallway window, when—

“Himemiya-kun!”

It was Misaki, apparently having chased after me, standing right in front of me.

“Was it… really okay? That café you recommended… it’s your favorite, right?”

“Didn’t have much of a choice. That’s the only stylish spot I knew that could take a reservation on short notice.”

“…I figured.”

Seeing Misaki weighed down with unnecessary guilt… yeah, I couldn’t help but feel a little bad myself.

“…Well, if we didn’t act when we did, we might’ve lost the private room anyway. Don’t worry about it.”

Hearing that, Misaki blinked in surprise.

But then… after a moment, she let out a soft giggle.

“……Why’re you laughing?”

“Sorry, sorry. Just thought, ah, he’s being considerate again, y’know?”

Even my lack of communication skills shows up in moments like this… huh.

“Hey, Himemiya-kun. You told me before, right? ‘Don’t just go helping people without thinking—consider their feelings one by one before you reach out your hand.’ Remember that?”

“Yeah. Wasn’t that the first time you came to the empty classroom?”

“Uh-huh. This time… you were the one who reached out to help me, Himemiya-kun. And that made me really, really happy.”

“……！”

That smile—bam, right in front of me. Kyaaa, it’s Karin-sama, the school idol, flashing a grin at this close range. My heartbeat won’t calm down anytime soon…

“Thanks so much this time! That was seriously cool of you!”

“O-oh…”

Was it a steep price or a cheap one…? I dunno. But I’ve got zero regrets.

Just then, the warning bell rings. And outta nowhere, Misaki grabs my hand.

“!? H-hey!”

“C’mon, let’s head back!”

Her hand pulling mine was crazy warm. Like, ridiculously so.

When Misaki and I get back to class…

“”Karin！””

Waiting at the door are Hatori and Kurashiki. The three of them lock eyes in that say-no-more kinda way… and gradually, their cheeks loosen into smiles. Then, without a word, they’re practically clinging to each other in a teary reunion.

“Thanks, you two~!”

“Be more thankful, dammit~! Oooh? Is that the great Erena being clingy for once!?”

“It’s ‘cause I was nervous doing something I’m not used to… I wanna be spoiled…”

Seeing Hatori blush, Misaki snuggles into her even more, pressing cheek to cheek. Then—

“I’m not missing out either!”
Kurashiki wraps them both into one big group hug.

“”Himemiya-san！””

“……”

While Misaki’s got her girls welcoming her back with open arms, my welcoming committee is Ameya and Takechi. I’d like to request a switch, please.

Nope, no swaps allowed. The two of them grab my hands, still sweaty from gaming a minute ago.

“Himemiya-san! I was moved, man! Please let me join the party too!”

“Same here! That whole exchange earlier? Gave me chills!”

“Too hot—let go of my hands.”

“”Super dryyy~!!””

And they’re not the only ones showing up. Here comes Namikawa.

“Thanks, Himemiya.”

“I’m the organizer. Don’t mention it.”

“Haha! Just like Ameya and Takechi said, you’re so dry, man!”

With a breezy laugh, Namikawa starts chatting with the still-rowdy riajuu crew, reining them in.

Feels like the ending credits of a game. Like we just hit the true ending.

“Thanks to Himemiya, we’ve got ourselves a legit afterparty!”

At Namikawa’s cue, the crowd of riajuu go wild:

“””””Himemiya! Himemiya! Himemiya!”””””

Especially Ikari. He’s way too loud.

It’s like I’m the hero who just defeated the Demon Lord, being praised by the King (Namikawa), and worshipped by the masses.

Just to clarify for the millionth time—I’m just a lone wolf, alright?

And yet, there’s Misaki watching all of this with a soft smile.

Final scene: Namikawa sticks out a hand for a hi-five, like that Exile-style thing we saw once.

And he says—

“Let’s have a blast at the party together!”

.

.

.

“Ah。I’m the organizer, but I’m not going to the party.”

“””””………………Huh？”””””

Dead silence from the crowd.

“Wait… do you have something important planned that day?”

“Yeah. I plan to spend it chillin’ by myself.”

“”””””………………””””””

Ahh. Finally. Sweet, sweet silence in the classroom.

I glance toward Misaki.

Just like everyone else—no, even more so—she’s giving me the most disappointed look ever.

“……You dummy.”

Oi, oi. You already knew I wasn’t joining, didn’t you?

Volume 1 Epilogue:

The days that felt both long and fleeting have passed, and today is finally the day of the shinbokukai—the class social gathering.

Of course, I didn’t attend. Asking me why is just a waste of time. Go look up the definition of shinboku in a dictionary.

Even though it’s Saturday, I found myself back at school in the private room. Truth is, I wanted to take it easy at home, but if I left things be, there’s no doubt Yuzu, my little sister, would get up to no good.

“Weekend work” sounds awful, sure, but since I’m just here to kill time, it doesn’t really feel all that bad.

A quick glance at the clock—past 4 p.m. By now, the second round of the party’s probably halfway through.

The first round must’ve gone off without a hitch. Even classmates who initially declined or hadn’t decided changed their minds, and apparently it ended up being a full turnout. Everyone… except me.

I only set up the second round, so I’ve no clue how it’s actually going. Rumor has it, the riajuu from each class are getting rowdy together. Third round’s karaoke, apparently.

Gara-gara—the door slides open.

No one at the entrance…? Wait, never mind. I drop my gaze.

“Good work on all your duties as the organizer, Himemiya-kun♪”

“Yo.”

In walks Amami-sensei, holding her beloved yellow bath bucket in both hands as usual.

Real-life weekend work? Respect.

“So, how was it? What are your thoughts on being an organizer?”

I take a few seconds to reflect on the nearly two weeks since I was roped into this.

“…Heh.”

“Don’t laugh through your nose like that!”

“In the end, being alone is just easier. These two weeks really reminded me that I’m just better off flying solo.”

“That’s its own kind of joy too,” Amami-sensei nods with an understanding smile… then suddenly grins like she’s realized something.

“You might not feel like you’ve really fit in, but the others around you don’t seem to think the same way.”

“Huh?”

Two very familiar faces appear at the classroom entrance.

“Good evening!”

“Thanks for everything.”

“…And here they come.”

Misaki and Hatori—dressed in their casual clothes—enter like they totally belong here.

“Once the shinbokukai ends, you two don’t have any right to be in here.”

“Then it’s fine, right? We slipped out during the second round, so we’ve still got some time on the clock, don’t we?”

About 30 minutes left, huh…

Guess they noticed me glancing at the time.

“Ama-chan-sensei! If you need help with anything in the future, just let me know!”

“I’ll help too!”

“Oi, explain the whole ‘time limit’ thing first!”

“But hey, Himemiya-kun—you do like us, right?”

Misaki grins and grabs Hatori’s arm, and Hatori gives me a soft smile of her own.

“No, I just… don’t dislike you, that’s all, okay?”

“Aw, not honest at all, huh~?”

“Not honest.”

Haaahh… Honestly, at this point, there’s no point resisting.

In this short time, I’ve gotten to know these two pretty well. Once they get like this, they don’t back down.

“Do whatever you want,” I tell them, and the two of them keep smiling as they each plop down into their chairs.

Human relationships are such a pain… So complicated. I really, really wonder if I’ll be able to keep on living my peaceful, solitary life from here on out…

I take a sip from my canned coffee—and I don’t think it’s ever tasted this bitter before.